EU Reaches Crucial Climate Agreement Ahead of COP30 Despite Concessions

On November 5, 2025, the European Union finalized a pivotal climate agreement setting ambitious emissions reduction targets for 2035 and 2040, just hours before the COP30 climate conference in Brazil. After nearly twenty-four hours of intense negotiations in Brussels, EU environment ministers agreed to cut greenhouse gas emissions by between 66.25% and 72.5% by 2035, relative to 1990 levels, and to achieve a 90% reduction in net emissions by 2040. These intermediate targets represent critical milestones on the path to full climate neutrality by 2050, as mandated by the European Green Deal and the Paris Agreement (Sources 130616, 130568, 130573).

The agreement avoided a diplomatic crisis but involved significant concessions. To secure Italy's backing, the EU accepted the controversial use of up to 5% international carbon credits for projects outside Europe, a move criticized by environmental organizations for potentially weakening the EU’s climate ambitions. Furthermore, the planned extension of the EU carbon market to cover road transport and heating was postponed by one year, from 2027 to 2028, drawing criticism from more climate-ambitious member states, especially in Scandinavia (Source 130616).

The agreement also includes a provision for biennial reviews of the climate law, allowing for future adjustments to emission targets based on evolving circumstances. European Commissioner Wopke Hoekstra highlighted the EU's leadership role in global climate efforts, especially contrasting current strategies with the US withdrawal from the Paris Agreement in prior years under the Trump administration (Source 130616).

While the agreement secured a qualified majority among the 27 member states, the 2040 target still requires approval from the European Parliament in its plenary session scheduled for November 13. Environmental groups have expressed disappointment, considering the compromises dilute the ambition essential for confronting the climate crisis (Sources 130573, 130616).

Overall, the EU maintains that its commitments remain among the most ambitious globally, striking a delicate balance between climate goals and political realities just ahead of a crucial international summit.